Wal-Mart has decided to back off from its plan to build a new superstore near the Wilderness battlefield. Not only that, but the company is going to reimburse Orange County for the legal costs incurred in going to court over their decision to approve the project. Hats off to the preservationists who kept this cause going in the face of discouraging obstacles, and to Wal-Mart for doing the right thing.

Speaking of battlefield preservation, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board met today, but without a decision on the proposed Gettysburg casino. The folks from No Casino Gettysburg were there anyway, in order to stay on top of things. They have their own blog, which I didn’t know about until today; I recommend you make it one of your regular online stops so you can keep up with what’s going on with this threat to America’s most famous battlefield. I’ve added it to my blogroll here.

Drop a line to the PGCB and let them know you stand with those who don’t think Gettysburg is an appropriate place for a casino. Hopefully when the time comes for them to make the call, we can celebrate another victory to go alongside today’s.